topic Re: support for keeping myslelf well while supporting someone through attempted suicide in Staying well

support for keeping myslelf well while supporting someone through attempted suicide

Kristen — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 03:15:17 GMT

Dear all,

I’m looking for some support and advice on how to cope while supporting a loved one who recently attempted suicide. I was the person who found them, and since then I’ve been struggling with constant, intrusive thoughts and overthinking that I can’t seem to switch off.

I really want to be there for him, but I’m finding it hard to manage my own mental wellbeing at the same time. How do you balance supporting someone else while also looking after yourself? Any strategies for managing the thoughts and focusing on what I can control would mean a lot.

Thank you

Re: support for keeping myslelf well while supporting someone through attempted suicide

Ggrand — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 02:37:13 GMT

Hello Dear Guest,

A very warm and caring welcome to the forums…

Finding a loved one the way you did would be very traumatic for you…I’m so sorry you went through that….

Looking after and supporting someone you love through a very heartbreaking period would be hard on your mental health especially since you were placed in the position you were….and probably left with some trauma as well…

Guest, I’m just going to gently suggest that you reach out to your Dr for some counselling to help you to manage the thoughts going through you mind…as well to help you focus on your own mental health…..If your mental health deteriorates because of the horrific thing you went through in finding your loved one in the condition he was, you might not be able to care for yourself…Its so important that you, yourself are well mentally before you try to help and support someone else…I know your doing a really good job in supporting your loved one..but please don’t forget to also care for your beautiful self…

Talk here anytime you feel up to it…we are here to help support you the best we can…

Sending you a gentle caring hug…🤗, with kind thoughts and care..

Grandy..

Re: support for keeping myslelf well while supporting someone through attempted suicide

Kristen — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 06:06:23 GMT

thanks so much for your beautiful kind words ❤️

Re: support for keeping myslelf well while supporting someone through attempted suicide

Psychdiaries2 — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 10:42:27 GMT

Hi Kristen,

I'm sorry to hear about the tough time you're going through right now. Thanks for reaching out on here, we're here for you!

I wanted to suggest practicing good sleep hygiene, it really makes all the difference. Part of looking after yourself is getting good sleep, going to bed early, dimming the lights early, etc. Eat proper meals and try to get some exercise. Take some time to do something for yourself that you enjoy. It could be anything like reading a book, watching a movie, going for a walk. It'll boost your mood and take your mind off things.

Just know that intrusive thoughts are temporary. You obviously care about your loved one a lot and that speaks volumes to the person you are. Know that you don't need to 'fix' everything. I know it's hard to not be in control of everything when we humans try to be. The truth is we're not in control of everything so we need to focus on the things we can control like offering encouragement and support, whilst also giving yourself time to rest and reset.

If you have someone in your life to speak to, now would be a great time to reach out just to have a chat. I hope things will get a little easier over time for you. Feel free to keep reaching out on here when you need 😊